The four clans are divided as follows: the Black Clan, wielding inner energy of wind; the Blue Clan, with blue inner energy; the White Clan, with earth inner energy; and the Red Clan, with fire inner energy.
In this kingdom, the two most powerful clans dominate the largest territories: the Blue Clan governs the Eastern Kingdom, while the Black Clan rules the Western Kingdom. These two kingdoms have long been rivals, their enmity mitigated only by an ancient treaty and a shared curse, which also serves as a weakness for both clans.
Merlin, who knew nothing of the clans or the kingdoms, found herself unexpectedly drawn into the tournament and even called to compete in the first match. She was baffled by the rules, especially the prohibition against weapons, requiring participants to rely solely on inner energy and the assistance of their companion beasts, who would instinctively protect their masters.
With no plan and only sheer determination, Merlin stepped onto the tournament stage, facing her opponent, Haijin, who was already waiting.
"You're so slow—what a weakling," Haijin mocked.
"Exactly. So why bother fighting someone as weak as me?" Merlin retorted, still unsure of what to do.
Lucy, sitting among the spectators, observed the unfolding match. To everyone else, she appeared to be nothing more than a cute, ordinary pet cat. Nobody suspected that Lucy was a living companion beast, one of only three in existence.
"I wonder how far this will go," Lucy murmured lazily, watching Merlin with mild amusement.
"Oh no, Haijin's companion beast is a fox! Is it dangerous? Lucy isn't helping me at all—what bad luck!" Merlin cursed silently, glancing at Lucy, who remained indifferent.
Zaky, watching eagerly, was thrilled to see Merlin in the spotlight. He had been curious about her abilities, and now he could see them firsthand.
When Merlin looked at Haijin's fox, she noticed its fear. Taking advantage of this, she decided to communicate with the creature.
"Hey, beautiful fox. I see you. Don't be afraid," Merlin said, attempting to intimidate the beast.
"I am Haijin's protector. I won't fear you," the fox replied, trying to resist.
"Really? Aren't you curious how I can see and talk to you?" Merlin pressed, her tone calculated to unsettle the fox.
"You sound crazy, talking to yourself," Haijin scoffed, unaware of Merlin's telepathic conversation with his fox.
Haijin suddenly felt his body grow heavy and immobile, though he couldn't figure out what kind of inner energy Merlin was using.
Lucy, observing Merlin's strange behavior, thought to herself, What is she doing? If she doesn't attack soon, he'll strike first. Is she really that scared?
Merlin, however, remained calm. "Leave the arena, or I'll burn you," she threatened the fox. Terrified, the fox jumped out of the ring, dragging Haijin with it.
The sudden movement sent Haijin sprawling backward, and he was declared the loser for stepping out of bounds.
The crowd was baffled. Merlin had barely moved, yet she had won. Since the telepathic communication between Merlin and the fox was private, no one could understand what had happened.
"The winner is Merlin from the Blue Clan!" the announcer declared.
While many spectators were disappointed by the lack of visible action, others were intrigued by the mysterious Blue Clan contestant.
After the match, Merlin stepped down from the stage and helped Haijin to his feet.
"Here, let me help you. Don't worry, I'm not the type to hurt others," Merlin said kindly, addressing both Haijin and his fox.
"Thanks," Haijin replied. "What technique did you use to throw me like that?"
"Inner energy. I pushed you," Merlin said with a sly smile.
"Is that even possible?" Haijin asked, puzzled.
"Not really," Merlin admitted with a laugh. "But your fox excels at illusion techniques. You should try combining them with your moves."
Haijin was skeptical but decided to ask his fox. To his shock, the fox confirmed everything Merlin had said. Even more surprising was Merlin's ability to see the fox, something no one else had ever done.
"Can you actually see my fox?" Haijin asked.
"Of course. That gorgeous red fur—how could I not? Can I keep him?" Merlin teased, clearly admiring the creature.
"You're ridiculous," Haijin said, amused. "I'll head back to my clan now. Want to come with me?"
"No thanks. I've got something to do with a friend," Merlin replied.
"By the way, my fox is male, so stop calling him 'beautiful.' He doesn't like it," Haijin added before leaving.
Engrossed in her conversation with Haijin, Merlin missed the next match entirely. Suddenly, the announcer's voice boomed:
"The winner is Zaky from the Black Clan!"
Excited by Zaky's victory, Merlin ran toward him, where he sat leading his clan.
Seeing her approach, Zaky stood and smiled, though he had been annoyed earlier by how much time she spent talking with Haijin.
Without hesitation, Merlin hugged Zaky. "Congratulations! We both won!" she exclaimed joyfully.
The spontaneous hug startled Zaky—and everyone else. The commotion even caused the announcer's microphone to fall off the podium.
The Blue Clan's leader, witnessing this shocking display of camaraderie between members of rival clans, stood up angrily, ready to intervene.
Once again, Merlin's impulsiveness had stolen the spotlight, drawing ire and astonishment in equal measure.